by Mike –
Jaguar is going back to the future by recreating one of their most significant race cars – the Jaguar Lightweight E-type.
This reminds me of two other similar ventures which have resulted in some amazing recreations of special race cars (see below).
The following is the text of a Jaguar press release
(MAHWAH, NJ) – May 13, 2014 – The new cars are the ‘missing’ six vehicles from the brand’s Lightweight E-type project, which originally started in February 1963 with the objective of building 18 ‘Special GT E-type Cars.’
Only 12 of the aluminum bodied Lightweight E-type vehicles were eventually built, the last in 1964, the remaining six designated chassis numbers having lain dormant, until now.
The new cars will be hand-built in-house by Jaguar’s finest craftsmen. Each car will be constructed to the exact specifications of their original 1960s forebears – including the 3.8-litre straight-six engine.
The Lightweight carried approximately 114kg (250lb) less weight than a standard E-type, thanks to its all-aluminum body and engine block, a lack of interior trim and exterior chrome work and a host of further weight-saving features including lightweight, hand-operated side windows.
Jaguar expects a high demand for the six Lightweight E-types. Established Jaguar collectors, especially those with historic race car interests, will be prioritised amongst those potential customers who express interest.
Jaguar Lightweight E-Type
This is very similar to the Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato Sanction II project where in 1988 four Sanction II cars were made nearly identical to the original and were given unused chassis numbers.
Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato
It is also similar to the Iso Rivolta A3/C Sanction II cars made by Roberto Negri of Bottegone, Iso Restorations in Clusone, Italy.
Iso Rivolta A3/C Sanction II
The Iso Rivolta A3/C Sanction IIs are 100% correct and authentic, and re-manufactured according to original factory construction drawings and specifications. The body is an all-aluminum riveted masterpiece and the entire chassis is hand crafted exactly the same as in 1963/64.
Let us know what you think about Jaguars decision in the Comments.
Don’t forget Shelby remember when he found all of those Chassis’s?